INÊS SOUSA, the Algarve’s only karate competitor, achieved eighth position in her category at the 19th World Karate senior championships in Tokyo earlier this month.
Inês Sousa, 21, told The Resident: “There were 52 athletes in my category, which is Kumite at 53kg, and I achieved eighth place, which was good considering that this is the first time I have ever competed in a seniors championship.”
A total of 888 participants from 97 countries took part in the championships.
Inês was selected to compete for Portugal’s national team around 18 months ago. Kumite karate is practised as a contact sport as opposed to Kata karate, which is a formalised sequence of movements including attack and defence postures.
Special award
“After this championship, I am hoping to take part in the national championship and then the European one next year and continue competing and training in karate for the foreseeable future.”
Inês Sousa was also awarded a sporting personality of the year award on November 20 at the annual gala of Portugal’s Sports Confederation at Casino do Estoril, for previously obtaining fifth place in the juniors and cadets world championship in Turkey.
For more information about the Clube Louletano Karaté or to offer sponsorship to regional karate competitors, please contact her trainer João Lima on 918 980 688 or email [email protected]
